Jennifer가 한국의 최초의 FeetManSeoul이란 스트리트패션 잡지에서 글도 쓰는데 이번에 그 잡지의 기자로써 영문신문에서도 패션 컬럼해요. 몰랐죠? 가끔씩 Korea Herald의 Expat Living 부분에서 컬럼도해요. 밑에는 신문을 직적보셔도 되고 그리고 밑에 텍스트도 나와요. 다른 여러가지 사진을 보고 싶다면 FMS으로 가시죠?

Korean women have long been known for their propensity for tiny shoes adorned with ultra-feminine touches. Bows, ribbons, spangles and sparkles covering itty-bitty little slips of shoes teetering on a slender heel that hardly seems able to prop up all the add-ons.

Cinderella-esque slippers have had a long rule, but recent trends have knocked the pumps off their throne, and all hail the new cold weather queen. The boot has now firmly established itself in the well-shod Korean woman’s wardrobe.

Until just a few years ago, it was hard to find a woman wending her way around Seoul in boots. Even in the coldest weather, regular shoes were regular wear. However, especially since last year, boots in several styles and heights have become required footwear for most female denizens.

This year though it’s all changed, and several varieties have become not just popular but must-haves for fashionistas. More sleek styles in matte and patent leathers have taken over, and a diversity of different lengths can be found, making it easier for individuals to find exactly the fit and style they want.

Among the more traditional styles, riding boots coming to just below the knee have been flying off the shelves, mostly in blacks and browns. Decorative buckles and straps add a touch of style, but for once decorative touches are held to a minimum. Laced boots are also in, often with a slightly Victorian edge to them. Meanwhile, slouch styles and suede boots are still around, but have morphed from the below-knee and mid-calf lengths of last year into the it-style of this winter: the bootie. Booties seem at first to be an odd addition to the foot-covering genre. They’re several inches shy of being a full-grown boot, but are obviously overgrown for the title of “shoe.” They offer several advantages for the fashion forward, including some that particularly appeal to the Korean consumer. Because they hit in the vicinity of the ankle, they don’t cut off the leg, which would make the wearer seem shorter.

A long, smooth leg line is important to keeping a slimmer silhouette, and thus its popularity here. When worn with a skirt, there’s still a length of leg to show off, while worn under pants they won’t make bulges or wrinkles as longer boots tend to. Unlike tall boots, this years booties are coming in a variety of colors and finishes, from traditional brown and black leather with minimal decoration, to fanciful oxford styles with elaborate punch detailing and satin or velvet laces in jewel-toned enamels.

Bright colors and extensive trim and detailing, along with more unusual animal skins like snake and ostrich are common, but heels stay true to their original purpose and are kept low. Local designers and brands are also getting more creative, introducing vibrant colors, often with piping or embroidery in contrasting colors. With more styles than ever, this winter is a great time to add a pair of stylish boots to the wardrobe.

Jennifer is a writer for Feet Man Seoul, an online street-fashion magazine. More information about Korean street fashion and style can be found at www.FeetManSeoul.com. — Ed.